More Julianna Pena

Biography

TRAINING: I wake up and go to strength and conditioning. Come home and eat and rest. I hit my first MMA practice shortly after. Come home, eat and rest before more work. Come home and eat and rest and go to my fourth MMA practice, come home, eat and sleep.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started a cardio kickboxing class at the end of Oct. '08 and took my first ammy fight in April of '09. When I found MMA I realized it was the outlet I needed and was looking for.

What ranks and titles have you held? The Ultimate Fighter 18 winner, Excite Fight Champion

Do you have any heroes? In MMA, Fedor, Nick Diaz, Hendo and Hughes

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It means the world to me to be fighting in the UFC. This is as high as it gets, it doesn't get any higher, and I’ve made it. It’s a great accomplishment for myself.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I did go to community college. I was earning my prerequisites and have not finished yet.

What was your job before you started fighting? Waitress and I still am.

Specific accomplishments in pro competition? I'm proud that I fought shortly after a car accident that broke my nose and still took the fight. I also had my arm broke in that fight and didn't quit.

If any, list ranks in any martial arts styles: I'm an assistant instructor at SikJitsu

Favorite grappling technique: Omoplata

Favorite striking technique: Jab

• Team Tate on TUF 18

• Pro since 2009

• Four wins by submission (2 guillotine, armbar, RNC), three by KO – has finished all but one of her wins

• On five-fight winning streak

• Had 2-0 amateur record

• Four first round finishes

• Lost 2012 bout to TUF 18 teammate Sarah Moras, which was avenged on the show.